Today, August 14th, 2026, I — Hali’a’aloha Mano, was dress coded for wearing a halter top to Pine Ridge High School. I was informed by staff that tops with straps are not allowed under the district’s dress code policy, which many of us students were unaware of. This experience was not solely mine; numerous other girls were also pulled aside, equally uninformed about these supposed new rules. This lack of communication between staff and students is troubling and reveals a significant issue within our school's approach to enforcing dress codes. Additionally, in the State of Florida I believe that as students we shouldn’t be dictated on what we wear. 

The current dress code at Pine Ridge High School is outdated and overly restrictive, particularly for female students. According to a 2018 study by the National Women's Law Center, 90% of dress code violations pertain to girls and disproportionately target female students, reflecting gender bias in school policies. This kind of policy fosters an environment where inequality is perpetuated, leaving many students feeling marginalized and unfairly judged.

Staff say, “It’s the district’s policy,” but they’re the ones who are enforcing said policy. Although, it is mainly female students they are actively targeting. A male student, like my friend, Adrian Garcia, walked around campus all day with no one batting an eye or warning. If a guy can wear a tank top so can a girl! This is unjust treatment.

Many girls are experiencing the same struggles. Some say it’s “Disgusting,” or “Inappropriate” that these standards are being enforced only because they’re a developing girl. Collectively agreeing that it is highly weird and suspicious adults are saying what girls are wearing is inappropriate, but they’re looking at them in that way.

Furthermore students have shared their stories about administrators berating girl students. One student stated that a FEMALE administrator called their outfits, “Skimpy,” or “Look like a hookah.” Suggesting inappropriate behavior from students. And on their way to SRC another FEMALE admin called out “Y’all need to go to SRC,” and scoffed. As a student I believe that before you try putting see-through shirts on young women, administrators should be setting an example—not reprimanding girls for wearing what they feel comfortable in.

By focusing so heavily on policing attire, we are detracting from the main purpose of education: learning and personal growth. Schools should empower students to express themselves while maintaining a respectful environment that does not hinder personal development. When dress codes are based on outdated gender norms, they impose unnecessary stress on students and could potentially distract from their academic responsibilities.

We propose that the School’s District of Volusia County conducts a more thorough review of its dress code policy, engaging both students and parents in the conversation to ensure it reflects a balance between upholding a conducive learning environment and allowing personal expression. Revisiting the dress code with input from all stakeholders will help craft fair and inclusive rules that everyone understands and can agree to follow.

We are not asking for an abandonment of regulations but a sensible revision that respects and reflects the student body's diversity. Students should not feel their education is compromised by their choice in clothing. It is time to promote transparency and understanding and ensure that communication is clear and ongoing between administrators and students.

Join us in urging Pine Ridge High School and the district to reevaluate and revise the current dress code policy. Sign this petition to demand change and ensure a fair educational environment for all students.

I would like to add that who or what I’m speaking about within this post is not directed or should throw shade towards the female or opposite gender. This isn’t an argument about boys versus girls—it’s to acquire attention towards an equality problem. So please be respectful in the comments because it’s not always the people who you think it is.